Italy hopeful Iran will resume positive influence in international community

SHAFAQNA – Italian President Sergio Mattarella expressed pleasure over the visit of President Rouhani to Rome, saying Tehran plays a ‘highly significant’ role in regional and international relations.

Italian President Sergio Mattarella made the remarks to IRNA reporter on the eve of the visit of Iranian President Hassan Rouhani who left Tehran for Rome this morning.

Noting Tehran’s effective role in maintaining stability in the region, President Mattarella called for collective cooperation, adding “naturally, we are counting on Iran’s constructive and positive cooperation on the international scene.”

The Italian premier also expressed his satisfaction with the implementation of the nuclear agreement and the subsequent lift of European and American sanctions against the Islamic Republic, deeming the agreement a ‘great success for the peace and stability of the region and the world.’

Mattarella noted the various fields of cooperation with Iran in the coming post-sanction period, adding “Italian companies have been looking forward for this moment and are now ready to resume their cooperation with Iran in various fields.”

President Mattarella further highlighted that the Italian government fully welcomes the expansion of economic ties with Iran following the current desirable conditions due to the removal of anti-Iranian sanctions.

“Italy-Iran’s relations have withstood even during difficult times due to the deep friendship between the two countries,” said Mattarella while expressing his happiness over the visit of President Rouhani to Rome.

Heading a high-ranking delegation, President Hassan Rouhani left Tehran for Rome on Monday morning, upon the invitation from Italian and French counterparts.

When in Rome, President Rouhani will meet with Italian high-ranking officials, including President Sergio Mattarella, Prime Minister Matteo Renzi and a number of investors and big business heads.

Rouhani will leave Rome for Paris on January 27 to hold joint talks with French counterpart Francois Hollande and other high-ranking officials.